Wildfire’s Macmillan Bake Sale: A decade beyond my diagnosis
On 26th September, I organised and hosted my seventh Macmillan Coffee Morning at the Wildfire office since joining the team back in 2016. Over the years, our generous cake enthusiasts have raised hundreds of pounds for this important cause, all through baking — and of course, eating — cakes and treats of all varieties.
The annual charity bake sale has become a fixture on the Wildfire calendar, offering not just a chance to indulge in a beautifully-baked brownie or a tasty cheese scone, but also to bring some feel-good vibes to the Boathouse office.
It’s a time for team bonding and giving back, all while raising funds for a charity that supports those going through one of life’s hardest challenges.
This year’s Macmillan Bake Sale holds special significance for me. As we gathered in our office with cakes and cookies to raise funds for a charity close to my heart, I found myself reflecting on a personal milestone.
Ten years ago, on that very day, I had been diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 26. Back then, when I thought about reaching this 10-year marker, I had a specific celebration in mind – a big party to mark a decade of survivorship.
Life, however, is unpredictable. Last year, my cancer came back, and with it the sense that I was starting over from zero again. Yet as I sat there, still working and living, I felt grateful to be marking 10 years of life beyond the diagnosis — even though the road hasn’t been straightforward.
Macmillan has always been there for people like me, offering support to those facing the hardest news and during the toughest times. For me, hosting this annual bake sale with the Wildfire team isn’t just about raising funds for this essential cause, it’s also about celebrating life (and giving cancer a big V’s up).
The ‘Do Good’ value that runs through Wildfire is something I’m particularly proud of. It’s about finding ways to give back and make a positive impact, both inside and outside the office. In line with that, our support for cancer charities didn’t stop at baking.
On Saturday 21st, the Wildfire team took part in Cancer Research UK’s Shine Walk, walking 10km and raising an incredible £5,000 for the cause. We really came together as a team and contributed an incredible sum to research that could one day change the future for so many.
As we raised our mugs and enjoyed the cakes at this year’s Macmillan Bake Sale, I couldn’t help but reflect on how far I’ve come, even with the setbacks. The journey with cancer is never linear, but it’s filled with moments like that one – surrounded by support and a shared commitment to helping others who face the same fight.
As long as there are cakes to be made (and eaten), the Macmillan Coffee Morning will remain an annual celebration in the Wildfire calendar. It’s a hard job, but someone’s gotta do it!
However, these activities are by no means the only philanthropic efforts at Wildfire. We’re all focused on making a positive difference to our community and society, supporting charities and causes that we’re passionate about — whether it’s bake sales, rewilding, volunteering our time, and more.
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